Tools Required

Notice: Use care when handling the coil springs in order to avoid chipping or scratching the coating. Damage to the coating will result in premature failure of the coil springs.

1. Remove the strut from the vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .



2. Install the strut assembly in the strut compressor.
3. Turn the spring compressor screw until the spring compresses slightly.



4. Hold the strut shaft and remove the strut shaft nut.



5. Install J 34013-38 to help guide the strut shaft out of the strut assembly.
6. Loosen the compressor screw while guiding the strut shaft out.
7. Continue to loosen the compressor screw until the strut and spring can be removed.

1. Install the J 34013-B and J 34013-20 clamp on the strut shaft in the J 34013-971 strut compressor lower adapter.



2. Install the spring over the strut in the correct position, and move the assembly upright in the strut compressor.
3. Install the locking pin.

Important: 

•	The tab on the upper spring seat must face in from the centerline of the vehicle, or when mounted in the strut compressor, the spring seat must face the same direction as the steering knuckle mounting flange.

•	If the bearing had been removed from the upper spring seat, the bearing must be installed into the upper spring seat in the same orientation as it had been. The bearing must be installed firmly in the spring seat before attaching the strut mount.

4. Install J 34013-38 into the strut to guide the strut shaft.
5. Turn the compressor screw clockwise while guiding the strut shaft to center in the assembly.
6. Continue turning the compressor forcing screw on the strut compressor until the strut shaft threads are visible through the top of the strut assembly.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

7. Install the washer and remove the clamp J 34013-20 from the strut shaft .

Tighten
Tighten the strut mount nut to 75 N·m (55 lb ft).

8. Remove the strut from the strut compressor.
9. Install strut to vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .